Nissan has unveiled its all-new, third-generation Qashqai crossover. Designed by Nissan’s European Design Studio in London and built at their factory in Sunderland, the new Qashqai will undoubtedly continue to be a big seller here in the UK and a popular choice with Motability drivers.
The first Nissan to be built on the new lightweight Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance CFM-C platform, the new car is longer, taller, and wider than the model it replaces.
While the shape may be new in places it looks familiar, with a few instantly recognisable Nissan family styling cues, including the large 'V-Motion' grille and sweeping signature lights. There are 11 different colours to choose from, plus an additional 5 two-tone combinations.
Inside, the interior has been substantially improved in line with Nissan’s desire to set “a new segment standard for premium feel, distinctive design and enhanced usability”, with a clear emphasis on improving the infotainment and safety technology on offer. The Qashqai boasts a larger, higher resolution 9-inch NissanConnect display screen that controls the navigation, entertainment and vehicle settings systems, while also being compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Wireless Apple CarPlay has also been introduced.
A new high-definition, fully electronic 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster offers the driver a choice of configurable layouts to display navigation, entertainment, traffic or vehicle information, all controlled from a new tactile dial switch on the steering wheel.
The larger platform brings significant gains in terms of cabin space and practicality over its predecessor, with extra legroom and shoulder space for the driver and passengers. It also means the boot size has increased to 504 litres, giving the new Qashqai an additional 74 litres of space over the old model.
No diesel versions will be offered with this new model. Instead, the Qashqai will be powered at launch by 1.3 DiG-T petrol engines with mild hybrid technology, available in 138 and 156 bhp variants. These are an evolution of the current engines and offer the choice of two- or four-wheel drive, together with manual and CVT automatic transmissions.
There will be no full electric version of the Qashqai; that option will be available in the upcoming, all-electric Nissan Ariya. Instead, Nissan will provide the option of 'electric driving' via the introduction of their new e-Power system.
Similar to traditional full hybrid technology, the e-Power drivetrain combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a 145kW electric motor for ‘self-charging’ functionality, but it differs in that the petrol engine part is not connected directly to the driven wheels, and is instead used exclusively to power the electric motor.
The wheels are completely driven by the electric motor, which means the engine can run at its optimal level at all times, leading to improved fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions when compared with a traditional internal combustion engine.
The Qashqai e-Power versions will also be fitted with the firms ‘e-Pedal’, which can be used for both acceleration and deceleration.
When asked to explain the new e-Power system David Moss, Regional Senior Vice President of Research and Development said:
“The e-Power system offers the best transition technology between ICE and EV, allowing users to enjoy exhilarating EV driving sensations and impressive efficiency at an affordable price point. We’re really looking forward to customers experiencing the thrill of new Qashqai’s superior electrified driving performance – it’s a perfect expression of Nissan Intelligent Mobility”
To date, over three million Qashqai's have been sold in Europe and over five million sold globally since the first-generation of the popular SUV – which Nissan claims created the flexible 'crossover' segment - was first introduced in 2007. The outgoing second-generation Nissan Qashqai is still Europe's most popular crossover.
Nissan has yet to release any details regarding the UK specification and pricing, though these are due to be announced closer to the car’s launch this summer. Expect to see the third-generation Nissan Qashqai available to order through Motability - the UK's number one motoring scheme for drivers with a disability and carers - before the end of 2021.
